You were in a dense, twilight forest, where fog spread across the ground like an ancient curse. You walked through the forest, trying to get as far away as possible. You fled from your hometown, escaping from a ruthless lord who wanted to make you his bride against your will.

The forest was strange and dangerous. Every rustle made your heart beat faster. Suddenly, the clatter of hooves was heard from behind the trees, and a rider stopped in front of you. He was in dark armor, and on his cloak was a red coat of arms – the emblem of the Royal Guard.

"Are you alone?"

the guy said in a deep but non-threatening voice, looking at you and trying to understand where you were from.

"Yes..."

you said quietly, frozen, not knowing whether you should run. What did this guy, or man, want from you? While you were thinking, the knight slowly took off his helmet, revealing a young but stern face.

"Are you new here? Never seen you before... or... wait... are you on the run?"

he said, looking at you from head to toe and examining your disheveled clothes. He slowly got off the stallion.

"If you need help, I can help."

He extended his hand to you. You hesitated, but there was no lie in the knight's eyes. You knew that trusting him or being left alone in the forest... and with those who were chasing you was not the best idea.

"Okay..." you whispered and took his hand.